Ten Royal Academies. That’s what makes up the Instituto de España. It’s a remarkable institution a true treasure of Spanish culture. Right here on Calle de San Bernardo we stand before its very heart.
The Instituto de España wasn’t always here. It began in 1938. Eugenio d’Ors and Pedro Sainz Rodríguez dreamed it up inspired by the Institute of France. Their vision a gathering of Spain’s most brilliant minds. A place to foster knowledge and collaboration.
Initially six prestigious academies joined. The Royal Spanish Academy oldest of them all. The Royal Academy of History uncovering Spain’s rich past. The Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando celebrating artistic excellence. The Royal Academy of Sciences exploring the wonders of the natural world. The Royal Academy of Moral and Political Sciences pondering the complexities of society. Finally the Royal National Academy of Medicine dedicated to advancing healthcare. These six formed the foundation of the Instituto de España.
It wasn’t just a matter of bringing academies together. These founders aimed to guide Spain’s cultural and research policies. A powerful task they held briefly until the Spanish National Research Council CSIC took over.
But the Instituto de España’s story didn’t end there. It expanded in 1946 welcoming two more academies. The Royal Academy of Jurisprudence and Legislation interpreting the laws of the land. Also the Royal Academy of Pharmacy safeguarding public health. Further expansions in 2015 and 2017 brought the total to ten academies. The Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Academy of Economic and Financial Sciences joined the ranks.
Today the Instituto de España stands as a symbol of national unity. A beacon of intellectual achievement. It’s a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and the pursuit of knowledge. Sixty-six associated academies augment its influence. The Instituto de España continues to shape Spanish culture and contribute to the world’s intellectual landscape. It’s more than just a building. It’s a living testament to the enduring power of ideas. Think of the countless scholarly papers. The countless works of art. All born from the collaborative energy of the Instituto de España. A true testament to the power of the human mind. A place where intellectual giants have walked these halls. Their legacies continue to inspire generations of scholars and artists.